Family Friendly Cruise Ships

susanktz · 01-06-2012, 07:16:45 AM

I have been looking at cruises for the family vacation this summer. So far, I've only looked at Carnival b/c they advertise as the "Fun Ship" and has lots of things for kids..... water slides, mini golf, etc.

What other cruise lines have you been on that also have outside activities for children?

Cruise line? Ship name? Sailed from?

We would really prefer to sail from Pt Canaveral, but will look at all suggestions from you from ports in FL.

(PS: Can't afford a Disney cruise.

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MsSweetCheeks · 01-06-2012, 07:59:49 AM

I've always have wanted to go on a cruise. It is my dream vacation. So far, it still hasn't happened...lol.

lmcconne · 01-16-2012, 03:52:32 PM

I will certainly not be able to provide an extensive description or recommendation, not being a mom. But I do know that Norwegian cruises from Port Canaveral. I do know they have an onboard kiddo club. I see the little tykes parading around on the ship some evenings with their handlers and attending some of the kid-friendly onboard entertainment. I can say for pretty much a fact that NCL is far cheaper than Disney cruises. Would the kid experience measure the same, I don't expect so, but what is the value of saving versus good-enough experience offered? Only you can make that determination. Message me if you would like to check for parent recommendations over at the cruise topic website I frequent.

KmmCo · 01-16-2012, 04:43:35 PM

How about one of the shorter Disney cruises like a 3 or 4 day? I know they do those in combination with the rest of the week spent at Disney World or Vero Beach as well. They really do have the best entertainment. (The one that we went on happened to be right when Pirates of the Caribbean came out and they had a "pirate party", movie premier, and fireworks right on the boat. How cool!) By the way, it is possible to get discounts on Disney by booking a year ahead (try googling All Seasons Travel in Jacksonville, FL). I think we saved almost $2,000 over "direct from Disney" rates when we did that.

Just remember that there is some crazy stipulations about not being in late pregnancy or having small babies on some cruises, so be sure check their policies before booking very far in advance - if any of this is in your future plans that is.

We have been on Royal Caribbean as well and it was pretty nice and less expensive. Seems like any of the major lines would be okay - I think they all have kids programs. Any cruise that has a "private island" as one of the stops is fantastic for some great beach-time fun!

Do, do, do go to the formal dinner with the kiddos if possible. I find that they love the dressing up and being able to act like "grown ups" and my kid even ordered the lobster (which he loved) instead of eating off the kids menu. We got a little tickled at one kid that came dressed in a tux with his mohawk and blue hair proudly displayed - he looked like he was having a great time too!